There are days when you just want to hide under the bed. I’ve had a few of those. When that happens, I like to do something unusual. It can be anything, as long as it’s something you wouldn’t normally do. Put on your swimsuit and take a shower in your back yard using the hose; Stand in your front yard and sing as loud as you can; go to the supermarket and offer free hugs to anyone who needs them. You are only limited by your imagination. Doing something silly and totally out of character will make you feel better and possibly give your mind and spirit the jump-start they need.

When life gives you lemons, forget the lemonade. Make a lemon chicken and a rich lemon cheesecake. Blame life for the extra pounds.

Writers are a superior breed. No one else can face so much rejection and still thrive.

No matter what you think, you are better than you realize. Every new writer goes through the phase where they think their writing isn’t good enough and they don’t feel they deserve to be called a writer. Name your favorite author. They felt that way too when they first started. If you write, you are a writer. Don’t let your fears hold you back.

Always take a few moments out of the day to set your imagination free. Our imagination needs exercise just like everything else, so daydream, play pretend, or imagine what it would be like to be a stapler. Have fun and stretch your imagination. I imagine you'll be glad you did.

If you write for children as I do, you usually have to know how a child thinks or feels. As an adult that can be difficult. I have found that the best way to reawaken your inner child is to play. What was your favorite game when you were a kid? Whatever it was, I bet you can still play it. Give it a try, and I bet you'll feel younger in no time. Don't be afraid of looking silly. We all need a little silliness in our lives. If your neighbor looks at you like you've lost your mind, invite them to play. They may surprise you. If they walk away or make a snide remark about your sanity, just stick your tongue out at them in true child form. This has never failed to work for me. When people think I'm weird, I just tell them I'm a writer. We are supposed to be a little strange.